In the Backyard

This morning we were looking out the window and happened to see a visitor.

This cow was munching on our foliage in the backyard, just about 40 feet from the back porch.

We made some noise but it didn't seem to bother her too much.  But if we would have walked out I am sure she would have wondered off.  And as you can see we still don't have very much snow.  The temperature has been hanging between 20 and 35 so pretty nice.

Snow

So after about 3 weeks of no snow. . .we finally have about 6 inches.  So Tate and I did a little playing in the snow today while Eric was fishing.

 Tate thought that the snow felt like a nice blanket, but he didn't want to cover his face, I wonder why?

I even found a nice spot to throw him in to make a fresh Snow Angel.  He did pretty good until he got up, but that is the hard part.

And this is the only fish Eric caught today, but it was a nice size rainbow compared to what we have caught this winter.  Would have been a good eating fish, but we let it go.

And this is a picture of Ellie. . .during our cold spell a week ago I came out and found her in front of the heater. . .Lazy cat! but smart!



Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year to everyone!  We are enjoying the warm weather (+45F degrees) but not the lack of snow, which is just about gone!  That's what happens when we have rain and then three days of +45 temperatures.  There were lots of fireworks around but I thought that the pictures below showed the true beauty of light and color in nature.

May you all have a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous, and Adventurous 2011.

Love, Eric, Erin & Tater

Statehood

So today is the Birthday for the State of Alaska!  They became the 49th State in the Union on January 3rd, 1959.  So here is a little more Alaska history if you all care to read.

The official seal of the State of Alaska is an elaborate representation of the state's natural resources and economic assets.  The seal consists of two concentric circles surrounding intricate detailed images.  The outer circle contains the words "The Seal of the State of Alaska" and two images, a seal and a fish, representing Alaska's abundant marine wildlife.

The inner circle shows the mix of Alaska's natural and industrial wealth.  The Northern Lights radiate over the top of majestic mountains.  Sailing ships navigate the waters.  Industry and rail transportation, timber production, and agriculture are all shown on the seal.  Abundant natural resources, and bustling economic activity are the themes that burst to life on Alaska's splendid seal.